If it's "sewable" it's doable.
"Here's a doll with a cochlear implant. The "hearing aid" (also known as the "microphone") is connected with velcro for easy removal, the "transmitter" (round part) is attached with a magnet so it can also be removed and the "battery pack" fits into a pocket sewn on the back of the doll garmet. All pieces are attached to each other with a cord. Parts are made from clay and fabric."
Pictures below are examples of a "Hearing Aid" doll.
From the website: "This handsome dude has a Latino skin tone, dark brown eyes and black boy hair. He wears hearing aids in both ears, which are permanently sewn in place so they won't get lost. See the picture below for a look at one of his hearing aids from the side."
I think this is great. For kids to have dolls that they can relate to provides a sense of reassurance and acceptance.
7 comments:
It is great and I wish I had a doll that I could relate to.
I'm laughing right now cuz I can remember all the Barbies I had and as a kid (not even a tween at the time), these dolls were not something I could relate to. Ergo, I cut off these part from these Barbies.
Of course children should have dolls that they can relate to, but why so pricey!? BAHA, and hearing aid manufacturers, having been providing kids with pediatric care kits for years for children with hearing loss with "dolls" "stuffed animals" "mascots" etc, that children with hearing loss can relate to. Also, how small are some of these "removable parts" on the "handicaple dolls?" Do they present a choking hazard? Sorry for spoiling the sunshine...Just asking questions...
It does seem to be pricey but I think it is appropriate. My mom used to make dolls and she used to charge 40 bucks a piece and that was 20 some years ago. 75-80 bucks sounds just about right, I think. Anyone can make dolls, I've seen how my mom made it, it's easy.
The prices seem more than fair to me. Actually, she could be charging a bit higher than she currently is, considering the amount of labor that goes into making these dolls in a 1-person shop.
As for choking hazard, I would assume that these dolls would be used by children who are old enough to know not to put small stuff in their mouth unless it is intended to be chewed and digested. And the parent would know enough of their child to determine that they need to keep removable items in a safe place and only use these under supervision until the child is old enough to understand the consequences.
I still at this point, disagree with you, Candy and Lola. These "handicapable dolls' in my opinion are over priced. You are looking at perhaps $100.00 + with S & H for a "custom doll" that a consumer designs for the doll maker. Even American Girl Dolls where critizied for their "over priced dolls" among other critism. So...Doll maker produces your "custom doll" and guess what!? No refunds.. it clearly states that on the order form. Consumer requests/complaints, only via e-mail. What it does not state it the age appropriateness. Doll maker also states "I'm not a manufacturer and I just simply do not have the ability to provide certain special requests, such as wheelchairs and metal braces."
Huh? I thought I could produce a "custom doll." Perhaps wheelchairs and metal braces do not relate to "If it's "sewable" it's doable.!?" Or is it related to our consumer advocate?
As far as the choking hazard goes, once again the age appropriateness is clearly not stated, which in turn, long ago, among other things created consumer advocates.
@ Candy you stated "Barbies were not something I could relate to. Ergo, I cut off these part from these Barbies." Seriously? You cut off parts on Barbie? Do I even want to know? *raises eyebrows* But I am gonna ask "what was YOUR experience growing up and playing with dolls?"
Whether it's "over-priced" or not people are willing to buy a custom-made "Handicapable" dolls. There are always niche markets out there and people are willing to pay extra money to get the products or services they want.
@ Margarita...
I liked playing with barbies cuz mine had a house and a camper - plus a cool convertible with wheels. I wasn't the first tomboy to play with barbies. Outgrew that tomboy-ishness eventually. I guess you'd have to be a 'former' tomboy to even understand. *shrug* I know I wasn't the only little 'tomboy' girl that did that.
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